Red Seal Sheet Metal Worker Practice Exam

What is the primary function of a fire damper in an HVAC system?

1. To cool the air within the duct

2. To prevent the spread of fire through ductwork

3. To filter dust and particles from the air

4. To control humidity levels

The correct answer is: To prevent the spread of fire through ductwork

The primary function of a fire damper in an HVAC system is to prevent the spread of fire through ductwork. Fire dampers are critical safety devices that automatically close in the event of a fire. They are installed in the ducts that penetrate walls, floors, or ceilings, acting as a barrier to contain a fire to its originating area and preventing it from moving through the HVAC system into other parts of the building. This helps to protect both the structural integrity of the building and the safety of its occupants by mitigating the risk of smoke and flames traveling through ventilation systems. The other options do not align with the specific role of a fire damper. Options related to cooling air, filtering dust, or controlling humidity levels describe functions of other HVAC components but do not pertain to the fire protection purpose of a fire damper. By focusing solely on the aspect of fire safety, understanding the role of a fire damper becomes crucial in both designing and maintaining effective HVAC systems.